Two months ago, I began this series about nine things you say in business that can make you sound less experienced. Parts one and two are still available for your reading pleasure, but now I bring you part three: "Is that OK?" When you do have to run something by your boss, team member, or coworker, don't say, "Is that ok?" This line sounds weak. It sounds like you don't know if your idea is a good one or not. It also sounds like you are grasping at straws trying to figure out what will work. Making stronger statements will allow others to see your leadership skills which are needed in business if you are going to get ahead. If you...
So, if you'll remember last month I began a new series that will help those who either are an employee or a small business owner. Part one talked about saying the phrase, I don't know. This month, I'd like to address I'll have to ask my boss. 2. "I have to ask my boss"Even if you are a low-level employee, a CEO, or a small business owner, saying that you'll need to ask someone can make you appear as if you have no authority. While there are some things you will want to discuss with any number of people before you commit to something, you don't want to make yourself appear as if you aren't an important part of the process. Another way to...
I'm starting a new series on the blog this month. Whether you run a business or are an employee, these nine phrases will come across as inexperienced, timid, or unsure. I'm going to take them one at a time. Here is the first phrase that will make you sound less experienced. 1. 'I don’t know'Nobody expects you to have all the answers all the time, but answering your co-workers’ questions with "I don’t know" and a deer in the headlights look can make you appear as if you are not able to do your job. It isn't what you say most of the time; it's how you say it. Here's a better answer: "I don't have that information right off the...
The Question:What's the first thing you should do prior to emailing someone about your services? What's the first thing you should do before you go into a job interview? What's the first thing you MUST do before you can convince someone of your point of view? It's the same thing for all three. Before you can even hope to convince anyone to do ANYthing, you MUST know your audience! Why is this Important? Because you cannot hope to convince anyone they need to do or buy or believe something until you first know where they stand. If you ever hope to communicate effectively, you need to first understand your audience so you know where to start. Ever go to the dealership...
I've been hearing from homeschoolers, both past and present, that they have missed receiving the weekly tips on our fan page and our blog! Well, I've got good news for you! As you probably know, Art of Eloquence is now a member of the Grape Stuff network of family sites. As such, we are included in their weekly newsletter and you can benefit from that as long as you do one thing: subscribe! Each week, Grape Value News includes a communication article resource and every so often it will announce a special savings on our materials or free gift! Again, all you need to do is one thing: subscribe! Once you are a subscriber, just keep an eye out for their email...